Since March 2019, CRR's assistance has been expanded to the island of Samos. Samos is the largest of the North Aegean islands after Lesbos and Chios. White sandy beaches, picturesque villages, and charming fishing ports characterize this Greek island. It boasts beautiful scenery, a mild climate, is of archaeological importance to Greece, and is a major tourist attraction. An absolutely beautiful island!

Samos is very close to Turkey (at its shortest point, the distance is less than two kilometers). Not only tourists come to this island, but also people fleeing war, violence, and insecurity. They are housed in the Zervou camp, which opened in September 2021. The camp is located approximately seven kilometers outside the town of Vathy.

The work on Samos is very diverse. There's a space where women and children can socialize and relax, a free shop where everyone arriving at the camp can choose clothing for free, and people can use a computer at the library for language lessons, for example. These are just a few examples. Besides working in the camp, it's also crucial that operations in the warehouse continue.

We'll be a group of up to four people. You'll all be departing from Schiphol on the same day. You'll meet at the information afternoon at the CRR office, which will take place approximately two weeks before departure.

You'll stay with your team members in one of the volunteer houses in Vathy. A car is available to drive you to the camp each day.

The cost of a four-week mission is €1260. This amount includes airfare (estimated price, based on actual costs), accommodation, and transportation to the camp. Food and drinks are not included. You must apply for a Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG) for the work; these costs are the responsibility of the traveler.

Download the Samos mission guide for more information.

Planned trips

Given the nature of the work, it's a plus if you're available for two months or longer. However, due to the current volunteer shortage, you're also welcome to stay for a shorter period (at least four weeks). Shorter trips to Samos are unfortunately not possible.

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2026

February 2 – March 2 | 4 weeks
March 2 – March 30 | 4 weeks
May 4 – June 19 | 6 weeks
June 1 – June 29 | 4 weeks
July 6 – August 3 | 4 weeks
July 13 – August 10 | 4 weeks
August 10 – September 7 | 4 weeks
September 7 – October 12 | 5 weeks
October 5 – November 2 | 4 weeks
November 2 – November 30 | 4 weeks
November 30 – December 28 | 4 weeks